Prices Continue to Drop
New Zealand sauvignon blanc makes up 80% of the nation’s wine exports. On the South Island’s Marlborough region, the amount of land devoted to vineyards has increase four-fold in the past six years. That’s the good news. The bad news is, the average export price of wine will fall 12% next year. Take advantage of the lower prices on these wines while you can.
2008 Nobilo “Icon” Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand
An old standby at a lower price makes for a great value. Light straw color with a rich bouquet of mineral, grapefruit and passion fruit. Hints of grass and red bell pepper on the nose. On the palate, flavors of pineapple, grapefruit, lime and tropical fruit, with hints of wet stone. A smooth, viscous mouth feel with a crisp, vibrant finish. Excellent with clam linguini. Drink now. $20 $14 BevMo
Recipe
Clam Linguini with Chive, Parsley & Anchovies
¼ cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic
3-4 sprigs parsley
2 lbs clams
3 tbsp minced shallots
1 tsp minced garlic
leeks ½ lb, thinly sliced
1 tbsp chopped anchovies
½ cup Nobilo Icon Sauvignon Blanc
clam juice
4 tbsp chopped chives
4 tbsp chopped parsley
crushed chili pepper
1 lb linguini
Heat 1-2 tbsp oil in a large pot over high heat, add garlic cloves, parsley, and clams, cover and shake well until clams open. Transfer clams to a dish using a slotted spoon, when cool enough to handle, remove meat from shells and reserve.
Heat 2 more tbsp oil in a large skillet; stir in shallots, minced garlic, leeks, and anchovies. Add wine and clam juice to taste; cook until liquid reduces by one-third. Stir in chives, parsley, clam meat, pinch of crushed chili pepper, salt & pepper.
Meanwhile, cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and add pasta to the sauce; toss to coat and serve.
Serves 4. This dish tastes best paired with Nobilo Icon Sauvignon Blanc.
Tags: linguini, new zealand, sauvigon blanc
